Known, Unknown and Unknowable

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Zelalem Mekonnen’s avatar

By definition, there is nothing in the unknowable, since it can't be known. One can rationally and with confidence move on and not even entertain anything that claims to be 'beyond human understanding.'

Criticized1*
Dennis Hackethal’s avatar

By definition, there is nothing in the unknowable, since it can't be known.

This isn’t true. There are unknowable things. Look up uncomputable functions, see eg

So there are things that computers like our brains can never access – there are fundamental, natural limitations.

In this context, I think of mysticism as restricting criticism and preventing error correction, ie creating a man-made barrier for reason. That’s different.

Criticism of #3968
Zelalem Mekonnen’s avatar
Only version leading to #3989 (2 total)

The sentiment of the sentence stands. Even with uncomputable functions, one shouldn't waste time in trying to solve them.

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Dennis Hackethal’s avatar

Then I suggest revising #3968 so that it still captures the sentiment without containing factual falsehoods.

Criticism of #3978